I'll see what I can do, making an original that suits the album will be hard though. As I suck at vocals and no drummer/bassist will be a pain...

Guess I could pull a "Robert Lockwood" and put down two rythm guitar tracks.

j_hunter_hkr

09-17-2009, 10:11 AM

I'd love to take part in this. The deadline suits me perfectly, plenty of time to put something decent together!

nico42

09-17-2009, 11:23 AM

I'll give it a shot!

TimBFMV

09-17-2009, 11:44 AM

I'm in :D

ze monsta

09-17-2009, 12:15 PM

I will do something, hopefully. It will not be blues as such. I expect it will be more like an electro/trip hop version of John The Revelator. I'm not doing anything straight up blues though I don't think, unless me and a friend do a bit of slide guitar/delta stuffz.

whitenihilist

09-17-2009, 12:52 PM

Sweet, I am thinking I am going to go for some British or Electric Blues. Maybe alongt the lines of John Mayhall and the Bluesbreakers.

I will keep you guys informed. :)

RubberSoul54321

09-17-2009, 01:23 PM

I like the album art you've got already :p:

gabcd86

09-17-2009, 01:41 PM

I'd love to participate. I'll try and work on some sort of acoustic/electric blues original, but my blues writing is... meh.

strawforest007

09-17-2009, 02:03 PM

I like the album art you've got already :p:

Strangely, so do I.

Are you joining in the fun and games of recording?

RubberSoul54321

09-17-2009, 02:26 PM

Yeah, why not! I'm out of the duels so I should have plenty of time to come up with something.

necrosis1193

09-17-2009, 02:29 PM

The microphone I was waiting for(SM57) finally arrived, meaning I can actually record without sounding awful now. I haven't tested it(I intend to later tonight) to make sure it's lag-free with my M-Audio Fastrack interface unlike my old mic was, but if it is then definitely count me in!

I also know two indie graphic designers, if you'd like I can see about getting one of them to do the artwork.

Bluestube

09-17-2009, 03:43 PM

If there's room I'm in.

matt92l

09-17-2009, 04:04 PM

aye why not, irish blues did no harm to nobody, count me in!

whitenihilist

09-17-2009, 04:27 PM

The microphone I was waiting for(SM57) finally arrived, meaning I can actually record without sounding awful now. I haven't tested it(I intend to later tonight) to make sure it's lag-free with my M-Audio Fastrack interface unlike my old mic was, but if it is then definitely count me in!

I also know two indie graphic designers, if you'd like I can see about getting one of them to do the artwork.

I will be unfortulantly recording with my Rock Band Mic. The quality is suprisingly not that bad( all of my profile tracks are done with it.)

I might try my hand at direct in recording again, but that is all dependant on how my laptop will act.

strawforest007

09-17-2009, 05:03 PM

This line-up is shaping up nicely already!

When all your tracks are done, I'll need a high quality copy, (UG apparently only supports 128 bitrate tracks) something between 192 and 320 is preferable, but this is not totally essential, just focus on the music first, but keep a high quality copy if you can and email it to me. I'll only need this if the whole charity album thing gets sorted out. I'm asking the top brass at UG for some assistance on that side of things as well.

If you guys could have a think about the charity you think this would be good targetting that would be cool too. I was thinking it should at least be a music related charity.

Any and all ideas are most welcome for this project, it's open for all of you.

nico42

09-17-2009, 05:11 PM

I upload all my songs in 192kb/s - it just says you can't upload files with a higher bitrate, but it lies!

Nice idea btw (the charity thing), aren't there a lot of programs that give instruments and/or music lessons to poor children? That would be quite suitable.

whitenihilist

09-17-2009, 05:29 PM

I upload all my songs in 192kb/s - it just says you can't upload files with a higher bitrate, but it lies!

Nice idea btw (the charity thing), aren't there a lot of programs that give instruments and/or music lessons to poor children? That would be quite suitable.

Arrgghh I have been nerfing my bitrate all for naught. >.<

I am going to try a higher bit rate next time I make a track, be it for this, or round 3 of the Duels (here's hoping)

Iceman 420

09-17-2009, 06:37 PM

Count me in for a song as well.

j_hunter_hkr

09-17-2009, 06:52 PM

I'd like to have a go at the album cover. I'm a graphic designer by profession so I'll have a look at putting something together when I get some spare time.

guitarplaya322

09-17-2009, 10:23 PM

I'll join, I'll try and submit some jazz since most people are doing blues.

NEmafia

09-17-2009, 10:51 PM

i'll definataly tell my band and see if we can come up with something so count me in

strawforest007

09-18-2009, 11:10 AM

Cool stuff. You're all signed-up (see first post).

Jazzman91

09-18-2009, 12:11 PM

I'd like to join, too. Don't have been that succesful with composing till now, but I am thinking of an jazz song. It's quite good that we may use other instruments because I think I'm much better on my saxophone then on guitar.

Did I understand it correctly that there will be a voting for the songs like in the blues duels? Then it wouldn't be that bad if I won't get anything composed, but the great amount of time gives me hope ;)

nico42

09-18-2009, 12:36 PM

I'd like to join, too. Don't have been that succesful with composing till now, but I am thinking of an jazz song. It's quite good that we may use other instruments because I think I'm much better on my saxophone then on guitar.

Did I understand it correctly that there will be a voting for the songs like in the blues duels? Then it wouldn't be that bad if I won't get anything composed, but the great amount of time gives me hope ;)

I don't think you'll have to compose some complicated jazz piece, aren't standards allowed?
Either way it would rock to have some saxophone on there!

Jazzman91

09-18-2009, 01:02 PM

I don't think you'll have to compose some complicated jazz piece, aren't standards allowed?
Either way it would rock to have some saxophone on there!

Yeh, a standard would be okay... but something own would be even better. This CD would be something that give me interest to compose sth. (ein Ansporn, du bist ja auch deutsch ;))

I've got a few pieces that are quite useful, some baselines or melodies. I just've got to get all those things together.

However, maybe I would be in need of a professional drum player, cause I just play a bit cajon and that wouldn't sound that good on a CD...maybe someone could play the drum line with metronome then and I record the rest... but just wait what I get composed...

strawforest007

09-18-2009, 01:17 PM

Jazz or blues standards are not allowed as they are in most cases classed as covers. Covers are not allowed.

Traditional songs are allowed, that is songs that don't have any known composer - but again I would personally steer clear and write your own composition. It would be a dire shame if the album got stopped for minor copyright infringement. If you're not sure if the song is written by anyone, I'd advice you still to not 'cover' it. Better safe than sorry.

If you're covering a track from the public domain (free from any copyright) that's fine.

As we're not whittling down to one winner, the voting system will be different to the blues duels. Chances are that everyone signed up should get at least 1 track on the album. This depends how many more people sign-up as there are unlimited spaces - we want a really good album.

The album sure needs a few more jazz tracks though!

salmon philippe

09-18-2009, 01:43 PM

Bien evidement , je suis avec vous les gars

Of course , I am with you boys

strawforest007

09-18-2009, 07:20 PM

Has anyone come up with ideas for the charity? I've had a scout around the web and found this: http://tipitinasfoundation.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.ViewPage&PageID=494

Basically it supports blues & jazz musicians locally (mainly kids/young adults), passing on the old traditions through free workshops and giving out instruments etc. A non-profit organisation. Good idea?

If we can get a shortlist of possible charities together that would be top banana (just chip-in with ideas)...

pangui

09-19-2009, 01:17 AM

Well I submitted to the original attempt of this why not, I'll do it again :) I'll submit "Bozzetto Corto", it's on my profile. Cheers.

whitenihilist

09-19-2009, 01:36 AM

Has anyone come up with ideas for the charity? I've had a scout around the web and found this: http://tipitinasfoundation.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.ViewPage&PageID=494

Basically it supports blues & jazz musicians locally (mainly kids/young adults), passing on the old traditions through free workshops and giving out instruments etc. A non-profit organisation. Good idea?

If we can get a shortlist of possible charities together that would be top banana (just chip-in with ideas)...

I did a little searching around and found that one too, I second it.

necrosis1193

09-19-2009, 04:40 AM

Has anyone come up with ideas for the charity? I've had a scout around the web and found this: http://tipitinasfoundation.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.ViewPage&PageID=494

Basically it supports blues & jazz musicians locally (mainly kids/young adults), passing on the old traditions through free workshops and giving out instruments etc. A non-profit organisation. Good idea?

If we can get a shortlist of possible charities together that would be top banana (just chip-in with ideas)...

1. That link doesn't work for me. :(
2. While I do like this charity, New Orleans, a vitally important city for Blues and especially Jazz, is still in disrepair, while Bono can be a bit of a prick(I love his singing, but the man paid upwards of $1,700 a few years ago to get his hat flown first-class to Italy, otherwise he wouldn't go onstage with Pavarotti for charity, he's a hypocritical nut), The Edge's Music Rising charity definitely also seems like a good one to consider to me.

Granted they do have huge commercial support via U2, Green Day, and I believe also Arlo Guthrie, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan though, so they'll not be as hurt by our support going elsewhere as the one you mentioned would be.

Also, four questions;

1. How are we going to sell it?
2. If our means to sell it costs money, who pays for it?
3. Can I make more than one track? Because I'd really love to put as much as I can into this.
4. I'm working on an EP of original material to sell under my own name. Can I include tracks I plan to put on that as well?

strawforest007

09-19-2009, 06:25 AM

1. That link doesn't work for me. :(
2. While I do like this charity, New Orleans, a vitally important city for Blues and especially Jazz, is still in disrepair, while Bono can be a bit of a prick(I love his singing, but the man paid upwards of $1,700 a few years ago to get his hat flown first-class to Italy, otherwise he wouldn't go onstage with Pavarotti for charity, he's a hypocritical nut), The Edge's Music Rising charity definitely also seems like a good one to consider to me.

Granted they do have huge commercial support via U2, Green Day, and I believe also Arlo Guthrie, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan though, so they'll not be as hurt by our support going elsewhere as the one you mentioned would be.

Also, four questions;

1. How are we going to sell it?
2. If our means to sell it costs money, who pays for it?
3. Can I make more than one track? Because I'd really love to put as much as I can into this.
4. I'm working on an EP of original material to sell under my own name. Can I include tracks I plan to put on that as well?

As regard to your questions:
1. This is in discussion with UG with options open.
2. Again, in discussion - options open.
3. Yes (Rule 5, first post)
4. That would be a no. Reasons: it may breach your record contract, the prices of this album and your EP are likely to be different if by chance someone buys both and discovers the same track they may not be too happy, it conflicts that your track(s) will be for sale commercially and for charity. Alternative versions would be fine though, say if one of your takes don't make the EP cut.

It will be difficult to keep everyone in the light about what is happening with regard the whole charity selling thing as there are many more questions being raised by UG and myself about it too. We are doing our best to find the most appropriate way to go about it and at the very worst we will still have our album anyway. For those who wish to keep tabs on the discussion between myself and UG, take a look in my blog for the conversations so far. This will be constantly updated so I can avoid repeating lengthy replies in this thread.

At this time I would stress it is more important to focus on recording the tracks first as it is important not to rush into offering the charity an album that doesn't exist yet.

Hmm...disregard my previous suggestion, I'm liking this more than Music Rising now.

As regard to your questions:
1. This is in discussion with UG with options open.
2. Again, in discussion - options open.

Alright then, please do tell me as soon as you know something.

3. Yes (Rule 5, first post)

=D

4. That would be a no. Reasons: it may breach your record contract,

Don't have one mate; the internet is awesome to the point that nowadays with a good mic, a recording program, a drum machine and a bass or octave pedal, you can record some music and put it on things like cdbaby and tunecore without being signed. :D Just as well even if the recordings I make at home with my SM57 don't sound good enough for a debut solo EP, my vocal teacher said if I ever wanted to do some serious recording, she could use some local contacts to get me a discount at a local indie studio I don't recall the name of. ^_^

the prices of this album and your EP are likely to be different if by chance someone buys both and discovers the same track they may not be too happy,

Hmm...true.

it conflicts that your track(s) will be for sale commercially and for charity.

Also true.

Alternative versions would be fine though, say if one of your takes don't make the EP cut.

Excellent then, that should work.

It will be difficult to keep everyone in the light about what is happening with regard the whole charity selling thing as there are many more questions being raised by UG and myself about it too. We are doing our best to find the most appropriate way to go about it and at the very worst we will still have our album anyway. For those who wish to keep tabs on the discussion between myself and UG, take a look in my blog for the conversations so far. This will be constantly updated so I can avoid repeating lengthy replies in this thread.

With that I shall subscribe to your blog.

At this time I would stress it is more important to focus on recording the tracks first as it is important not to rush into offering the charity an album that doesn't exist yet.

:cheers:

Very true, not holding to my lazy bastard traditions I should probably get working now rather than waiting to the last week like I usually end up doing. :p:

urik

09-20-2009, 10:57 AM

Crap, I'd like to contribute Straw. Problem is... I suck at composing :( . Although I'm not bad at improvising, in my 4 playing years I still haven't managed to write a single song :sad:.

strawforest007

09-20-2009, 11:34 AM

Crap, I'd like to contribute Straw. Problem is... I suck at composing :( . Although I'm not bad at improvising, in my 4 playing years I still haven't managed to write a single song :sad:.

No problem, but if you do come up with something just let me know.

salmon philippe - your track(s) don't have to be brand new. It could've been recorded 20 years ago for all I care, as long as it is not a cover or part of a publicly released album it's fine.

I should also make it clear that bands are allowed too!

j_hunter_hkr

09-20-2009, 07:30 PM

Had a bit of time this evening just to put something together for a possible cover.

http://www.jamiehunter.co.uk/cover01.jpg

I've used Tiptina's for now just as an example (from what I've read, it would be a great choice anyway) so that can change if need be. Let me know if I'm on the right track with it, I can always come up with more ideas.

(Sorry if it's a bit big!)

strawforest007

09-20-2009, 07:42 PM

That looks fantastic!! I wish I'd spent more than 5 minutes on my efforts. That really looks great - I've added it to the band pictures (see 1st post for link).

necrosis1193

09-20-2009, 09:29 PM

I'd just like to vote now in favour of Hunter.

zhilla

09-21-2009, 04:56 AM

Crap, I'd like to contribute Straw. Problem is... I suck at composing :( . Although I'm not bad at improvising, in my 4 playing years I still haven't managed to write a single song :sad:.So base it on improv - write yourself some lyrics to use as a base (doesn't matter how crappy they are - they are only there for rhythm/phrasing, you don't have to actually use them as lyrics), come up with a chord progression you like then improv a verse based on those lyrics, and then expand on that.

Break it down into sections, so instead of trying to write a song, you're writing a 12bar verse, or even just a 4 bar line of a verse. Its a lot less daunting.

Works for me, and I'm a beginner at guitar and probably the least creative person I know ;)

Edit: That looks awesome hunter!

j_hunter_hkr

09-21-2009, 05:06 AM

That looks fantastic!! I wish I'd spent more than 5 minutes on my efforts. That really looks great - I've added it to the band pictures (see 1st post for link).

I'm at work right now, but later on I'll upload a version without the crop marks. The Telecaster image is a stock image from istock photo.com. If people are happy with this I'll get in touch with the photographer and get a proper release for the image. I'm sure with it being for charity it shouldn't be an issue.

Jazzman91

09-21-2009, 09:12 AM

I have uploaded the main structure of my song (just the chord progression) on my profile, maybe some of you would like to comment on it so I can improve it?

Just realised that composing isn't that hard if I have a reason to do it for, normally nothing comes into my mind.

TimBFMV

09-21-2009, 11:35 AM

Hunter that album cover looks sweet!

carmour

09-21-2009, 07:38 PM

that cover looks pro as, nice work ;]

whitenihilist

09-22-2009, 04:01 AM

I changed the song I am submitting. It kept the name the same to save confusion, but I was able to borrow my friends acoustic and lay down nice little blues shuffle with it. Put some lead work over it and all an all I like it a lot more than my other one.

Jazzman91

09-22-2009, 05:06 AM

Cool, Bossa Nova

I think we`ll have a great varity of jazz and blues styles, will be a really great album

j_hunter_hkr

09-22-2009, 05:35 AM

Thanks for all the kind words on the cover.

salmon philippe, I love your tracks. Looking forward to hearing the new one!

RubberSoul54321

09-22-2009, 01:10 PM

Just want to add my own admiration for the cover art - nice work.

salmon philippe

09-24-2009, 02:08 AM

Thanks for loving my tracks Hunter, this is why I make them, and you can listen to them as much as you like on my profile ...
the jazz one is brand new as I told you , but the blues one will be chosen through the old ones already here (I suppose one of those who were presented for the blues duel, but I don't know which one yet).

strawforest007

10-02-2009, 12:01 PM

How is everyone's recording going? Just over 6 weeks to go...

Are we in agreement that Tipitina's Foundation would be the suitable charity? If so I can get in contact with iTunes with the proposal and things can get moving.

TimBFMV

10-02-2009, 12:06 PM

*gets to work on track*
probably doing it in the key of C so i can use my harmonica :p:

RubberSoul54321

10-02-2009, 12:42 PM

I've got lyrics and a basic riff written - just trying to put it all together. should be ready in plenty of time.

Tipitina's Foundation sounds fine to me.

strawforest007

10-04-2009, 12:50 PM

Cool, keep working on the tracks everyone!

Would anyone be willing to master the album once all the tracks are in? I'd do it myself but I feel this album deserves someone who knows what they're doing! I don't have the equipment to do it either, sadly.

There's been an added rule too; see first post - rule 9.

j_hunter_hkr

10-08-2009, 02:24 PM

Great entries so far chaps!

I'm working on mine mainly at weekends, but trying to find some time during the week, too. I've written a drum track in GuitarPro5, it's pretty basic but I've never written guitar tabs in GP5 before, never mind drums! I've got an idea for the guitar parts, my aim is to do a modern instrumental blues track, kinda like Black Keys meets Mogwai (way more Black Keys than Mogwai, though!).

Hopefully it will turn out ok. If not, it's definitely been a learning experience!

RubberSoul54321

10-08-2009, 02:49 PM

Since we're allowed to submit 2 tracks, I'm gonna re-submit Swamp Blues - my entry for the first run of the second album. I know it's not up to much, I'm just curious to see how it does! Plus, I'm not gonna do anything else with it :shrug: here's the link, further, hopefully more accomplished, song to follow:

As much as I'd love to attempt mastering, I've neither the skill nor the equipment.

The_Frontline

10-12-2009, 07:27 AM

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/The_Frontline/

j_hunter_hkr

10-12-2009, 07:41 AM

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/The_Frontline/

Erm... what?

strawforest007

10-12-2009, 07:10 PM

^ no idea.

Right guys and gals, just over a month to go. How's everyone coming along?

necrosis1193

10-13-2009, 12:38 AM

Things are going pretty good for me. I'm planning to use one of my tracks to colab with Primus2112 playing the bass, and I just need to figure out the last few lines of the lyrics of the song I'm doing myself.

RubberSoul54321

10-13-2009, 01:24 PM

I've got drums, bass and rhythm down. Now I need to drink a bottle of scotch so that I can sing!

Jimmy94

10-13-2009, 01:42 PM

I'll do something if there's room

strawforest007

10-13-2009, 02:08 PM

Plenty of room Jimmy!

matt92l

10-14-2009, 07:00 PM

Mines in my profile, its called 'Messenger Blues,' might I add, that album cover looks great!

Composing a blues piece without a backing track is harder than I thought, bearing in mind I'm only 13 :haha:

Jazzman91

10-21-2009, 04:23 AM

Hey guys, I just uploaded a new version of my song. Yesterday was my recording day and I wanted to finish the song.... Unfortunately I made a mistake in the first take, the bass, that I didn`t realised. That's why the backing guitar and the backing saxess are a bit out of time at some times. And I mixed up something in the chords of the middle part so my sax solo don't fit in.

I uploaded this now, because I won't have time to record till next week. So if you want to criticise something (thats not about the crappy playing), now' s the time...

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/Jazzman91/music/all/play720987

Ah, and by the way it still needs a name.... if you've got an idea...

j_hunter_hkr

10-22-2009, 11:44 AM

I've uploaded a new track to my profile (it's called I-IV-V, hard to think of a name). It's a bit noisey so if people don't think it belongs on a Blues and Jazz album I'll come up with something else. It was great fun to record though so I thought I'd post it here anyway.

strawforest007

10-22-2009, 12:07 PM

^Nice one. Drums sound a bit loud to me, but that shouldn't be a problem. Inspired by Greenie's 'Drifting'?

If you listen to all the tracks so far (see 1st post), it's quite eclectic (a good thing)!

Just over 3 weeks to go to the deadline...

j_hunter_hkr

10-22-2009, 12:16 PM

^Nice one. Drums sound a bit loud to me, but that shouldn't be a problem. Inspired by Greenie's 'Drifting'?

If you listen to all the tracks so far (see 1st post), it's quite eclectic (a good thing)!

Just over 3 weeks to go to the deadline...

Got it in one! I've always loved the swagger and attitude of that song and the riff in particular. I tried to put a bit more anger in mine, I've been a bit p*ssed off lately! :p:

I used the RSE feature in guitar pro for the drum sounds, I'll maybe take another look at it and tweak it a bit.

Edit: Oh and regarding the album cover image, I've sent an message to iStock but they have a ticketing process for answering the e-mails. Hopefully mine will be near the top of the list by now!

RubberSoul54321

10-22-2009, 05:16 PM

This is bloody hard work! I've never done a whole song before with lyrics and such. I'm happy with the rhythm, bass and drums but getting the lead line on so that it doesn't sound too busy is an absolute bastard! Plus I can't sing for shit - tried the whisky method but before long couldn't remember the words, tune or indeed my own name. Maybe try slightly less whisky next time!

necrosis1193

10-22-2009, 09:52 PM

...It would appear my mother is out to spite me. I have not said anything directly, but it seems like she won't let me do this. That said though, I will keep working on my track and submit it. But don't consider me a definite participant sadly. :(

Ok, I have a second track done. I wanted to put more of a jazz thing into this. Me and my friends originally recorded this backing track for the Duels, but after it was all said and done, I though it was not bluesy enough.

It is "Cool Blues Skies" on my profile.

Jazzman91

10-24-2009, 03:58 AM

Ok, I have a second track done. I wanted to put more of a jazz thing into this. Me and my friends originally recorded this backing track for the Duels, but after it was all said and done, I though it was not bluesy enough.

It is "Cool Blues Skies" on my profile.

That's a well-played track. Lead guitar could be a bit louder, in my opinion, but the atmosphere and your playing are really good.
Title fits, too. :cool:

whitenihilist

10-24-2009, 04:05 AM

That's a well-played track. Lead guitar could be a bit louder, in my opinion, but the atmosphere and your playing are really good.
Title fits, too. :cool:

Thanks, I might consider changing the volumes later, I just did a quick mix. I suck at finding proper volumes for each track TBH. :(

zhilla

10-27-2009, 10:23 AM

If I understood her answers to my indirect questions right, she's very certain it'll cost money to host and doesn't want me spending my money on this.I don't get it - she won't let you submit a track? Maybe you should quit beating around the bush - which may make her think there's something she should be concerned about - and just tell her what you're planning on doing and why, and let her ask any questions?

I don't get what there is for your mom not to like if she knows what you're doing :shrug:

strawforest007

10-27-2009, 10:46 AM

I don't understand either. I'm getting in touch with Apple shortly about iTunes possibly having the album, but they may not make a decision until they've heard the album so it could take a few weeks at least. If iTunes are kind enough to waive the fee as we don't want any royalty money for it then that's cool. If they decide to charge a fee I'll look elsewhere to see who can do it for free, it is for charity after all. Failing that then I'll seek an alternative method.

There's no costs for you apart from the time, talent and effort put into doing your track(s). I'm not paying any fees, you guys aren't paying any fees and there's no possible way I would be able to force you to pay for anything anyway (if there was anything to pay for).

It's a charity album and we're giving it away for free to the charity for them to sell and make what they can out of it.

If any part of the charity idea falls through (for whatever reason) then the album will just be on UG, which also costs nothing.

I can't seem to explain it much clearer than that.

RubberSoul54321

10-27-2009, 04:38 PM

Right. I decided to upload the rhythm track of my song. It's called Losin it All. I have lyrics but haven't recorded a decent take as yet. I also need to record a lead line - something simple in the main song, sorta turnaroundy mostly, then maybe gettin jiggy with a wah for a short solo. Any and all comments would be really appreciated - good or bad - because this is driving me nuts. Here's the link anyway:

in case you're not up on your greek philosophy, it means to go against your better judgement which is quite suitable as i have a massive pile of uni work to be doing but thought sod it and worked on this track instead.

Jazzman91

11-05-2009, 09:20 AM

/\ nice track. liked the lead playing alot.

have a late offering to the album if it's wanted. be up to you lot to decide whether it is good enough or hasn't strayed too far from the jazz/blues styles.

About the track above, yeah that ones really great.

To your track: I wouldn't say it's too much away from jazz or blues. I would name the style pop-blues but at least for ME this one would be okay. In my opinion it would be boring if everyone just did the typical 12bar blues scheme with blues pentatonic, either acousic or electric....

As I already said somewhere in this thread, I prefer a great plurality of jazz and blues styles. My two tracks will be somewhere between bebop/fast easy listening jazz and Hardrock/Bluesrock.

To commemt on your playing, it's nice, some tracks are more spectecular, but the backing guitar riff is really good. ... I think this one could work on the album

clear and blue

11-05-2009, 11:09 AM

In my opinion it would be boring if everyone just did the typical 12bar blues scheme with blues pentatonic, either acousic or electric....

I second that. although some people's opinions can vary widely: some people believe if its not classic robert johnson type stuff its not the blues. others would extend out as far as gary moore etc and some of the more metally blues. i think even some black sabbath can be quite bluesy.

to be honest i never made a point of making the track bluesy or jazzy (or even for the album for that matter)

the track started as my first attempt at recording but strawforest thought maybe if i tarted it up a little (change some things and see how it turns out) i might as well submit it here and leave it up to the users here to decide whether its worth putting on the album.

anyway, ive personally liked everything people have done so far, keep it up with the recordings!

necrosis1193

11-06-2009, 03:47 AM

I don't get it - she won't let you submit a track? Maybe you should quit beating around the bush - which may make her think there's something she should be concerned about - and just tell her what you're planning on doing and why, and let her ask any questions?

I don't get what there is for your mom not to like if she knows what you're doing :shrug:

Hmm...that's actually a good point, hopefully it will work with her...will try that in the morning I suppose, and if I get a go-ahead I'll just put a few overdubs on and post it.

I don't understand either. I'm getting in touch with Apple shortly about iTunes possibly having the album, but they may not make a decision until they've heard the album so it could take a few weeks at least. If iTunes are kind enough to waive the fee as we don't want any royalty money for it then that's cool. If they decide to charge a fee I'll look elsewhere to see who can do it for free, it is for charity after all. Failing that then I'll seek an alternative method.

There's no costs for you apart from the time, talent and effort put into doing your track(s). I'm not paying any fees, you guys aren't paying any fees and there's no possible way I would be able to force you to pay for anything anyway (if there was anything to pay for).

It's a charity album and we're giving it away for free to the charity for them to sell and make what they can out of it.

If any part of the charity idea falls through (for whatever reason) then the album will just be on UG, which also costs nothing.

I can't seem to explain it much clearer than that.

Impeccably worded, probably better than I'd do myself. Now just need to edit it to fit my speech mannerisms and use it tomorrow... :p: Much appreciated for all the support guys, this is probably one of the biggest things I've wanted to get involved in a while, so I'd hate to see it shot down because of something this trivial.

strawforest007

11-08-2009, 04:41 PM

One week left to go people! Let's get these tracks in soon!

ze monsta

11-08-2009, 05:06 PM

I wont be able to. I had a huge fallout with the guy who I would've borrowed recording gear from, I have GCSE Mocks, a few AS Mocks, and a whole lot of other shit going on in my life. I'm sorry, but I can't do it. I know I've had ****ing ages, but still that's the truth of it, I won't be able to. Hope you understand.

strawforest007

11-08-2009, 05:09 PM

Yep, as long as I know! It's the not knowing that frustrates me!

Best of luck with the exams :cheers:

clear and blue

11-08-2009, 09:42 PM

/\ im sure you can do it in a week.

even if you dont have the completely finished track ready, you could always submit whatever you have on the 15th and, if it makes the album, get things more polished a couple of days later.

although saying that, i can't speak for strawforest who is organising/producing this album

I would have loved to do something bossa orientated

whats the worst that could happen? you'd end up having produced a track in a style you are obviously interested in doing and would have learned from the experience. dont let a deadline stop you. plus you'd have a track ready to fall back on if there is another blues & jazz album.

why put off till tomorrow what you could do today?

whitenihilist

11-08-2009, 09:46 PM

Man I am pretty excited about this one. I cannot wait to see how things turn out.

I learned some new jazz chords, and want to redo my backing track for my Jazz track I submitted, but I don't want to muss the atmosphere of the song, so I will leave it as it.

strawforest007

11-09-2009, 06:19 AM

That raises a good point 'nihilist: if anyone who's already submitted wants to edit or change or swap their track that's absolutely fine but I must have the right one at the deadline!

As long as I end up with the full correct list of tracks at the deadline so we have the basis to vote tracks off and mastering can then begin...Oh and then I have the little issue of contacting Apple (iTunes) - I wanted to do this sooner, but it would've been silly to propose an album without the final tracklist.

clear and blue - the deadline isn't going to move, but yes - get in what you have of the track if you're running thin on time. If you come up with a more polished mix before I start mastering then that's fine, but only if you've submitted the track by the deadline. I'm not accepting any late tracks otherwise this album will get messy (time-wise). No exceptions.

As it stands we have enough for an album already, so voting tracks off may not be an option unless there is a surge of tracks entered before the deadline...

TimBFMV

11-09-2009, 07:03 PM

Guuyys, sorry I've been so bad at this! Don't worry though, I'll have a track ready for the deadline. I've changed my mind so many times, it's been like
"Nah that's too boring"
"Nah that's too rocky"
"Nah that doesn't sound right"
But I've got some new riffs up my sleeve, so all is well. I've also been trying to find/make a drum track for ages, which I've given up on. I'm just going to have guitars now. I've also had a load of science revision to be doing because I've got a GCSE in a week and a bit.

and when judging my track please remember i'm only 13 :p:

strawforest007

11-10-2009, 08:20 AM

Phil: It all depends how many tracks are submitted. Ideally at least one track from each user will get on the album, but if there are a lot of tracks entered then there may not be room for everyone. As it stands at the moment all the tracks entered will be on the album but as you can see there are a lot of tracks yet to be submitted!

Tim: Good luck recording!

Jazzman91

11-11-2009, 04:13 PM

Collaboration track uploaded:

Remember Angus: Jazzman/Nico/Strawforest

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/Jazzman91/music/

(And to strawforest, could you please update my song in the list; it's still called "nonamed composition" instead of "snow on a summer day" and has no actual link)

Jimmy94

11-13-2009, 01:04 AM

using one of the songs I wrote for the blues duels for my submission

http://www.sendspace.com/file/oix19g

strawforest007

11-13-2009, 08:12 PM

I've submitted mine (I re-worked August of Wind, since I was going to use that for neils original version of this album anyway). It's called 'Ebb & Flow'.

I may get a second track in on time too, but it will be a short interlude-style thing or a another old track re-worked/cleaned up.

Cheers Jim! This really is shaping up nicely!

Less than 2 days to go everyone..................

TimBFMV

11-13-2009, 08:14 PM

Since it's raining all day tomorrow I'll be having a recording day. My final piece will be in tomorrow.

zhilla

11-14-2009, 02:28 PM

Life's been a bit manic so I cheated and had a play with one thats a few months old - so the bends are less painful at least :p:

If I get time I'll try and do something new tomorrow, but its looking doubtful - sorry :S

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/zhilla/music/all/play733646

TimBFMV

11-14-2009, 06:51 PM

Guys, I'm so sorry, so much schoolwork has come up and got in the way. If I can get something for tomorrow I will do my best.
As a backup plan, I'll enter

Blues Duels Entry ROUND 2

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/TimBFMV/music/#comments_div

strawforest007

11-14-2009, 07:07 PM

Ok Tim, no problem. I won't put your 'blues duels entry round 2' on the list yet in case you get something else in. Could you also confirm that the backing track to that is copyright free? I read on your comments it's taken from youtube...

Zhilla: cheers for that! The list on the first post has been updated.

necrosis1193

11-15-2009, 03:33 PM

I hate my life at times.

Found a mouse in the basement I'm optimistic enough to call a home studio a few nights ago, when I was bringing the amp upstairs I tripped and it fell out of my hand. fortunately the guy at the shop said that all that got damaged irreparably was a tube or two, but the speaker, while not dead, needs fixing, and I gave it to them on the 9th so it doesn't seem I'll be entering. Again, I'm absolutely distraught over not being able to participate in something like this, if there's any way I can enter at a later date I'd love to, and you can bet I'll buy a copy.

strawforest007

11-15-2009, 06:07 PM

Ah. Gutted. Deadline is a deadline though, so you'll have to wait for the next album (if this one goes well)! Cheers for letting us know though and I hope your amp gets fixed quickly, properly and affordably!

There's still a few more hours of the deadline day remaining to submit, but I guess we're all finished now already?

RubberSoul54321

11-15-2009, 06:42 PM

I've just started listening to some of the tracks and so far I'm well impressed with the standard. Zhilla, Straw and Hooker have all had my foot tapping so far - will listen to more as time allows.

strawforest007

11-15-2009, 08:04 PM

Cheers RS! Without getting ahead of ourselves I think the tracks are all super - it's been a great effort! Still a fair bit left to be done though...

Once I have all the tracks in I can upload them to the band page. If the overall length of the album goes over the hour mark then I may have to get you guys to vote off a few tracks, sadly, just to get the album to a reasonable length. Some may think 21 tracks is a few too many as well. But if all the songs sit ok and it listens well then we're ok.

One final point (and I could do with a few people getting back to me on this), is the issue I raised with goolz (imgooley) over his track 'God Don't Like Ugly', which contains swearing. The issue being as it's a charity album (and the target charity is for the younger generation) the song is in my opinion inappropriate for that reason. Goolz informed me he'd rather enter a different track than alter/censor it i.e. take it or leave it. A stance which I can fully understand. But thinking realistically that puts me in a position where I have to reject the track.

I have nothing against goolz, (or indeed any of you!) nor do I have anything against swearing in music or general when appropriately applied. All I can do is offer goolz a chance to replace the track if he wishes to. I feel that would be a fair option and I hope you people can see my point of view here.

For everyone else though, the deadline has gone. Congratulations to those who got tracks in! Have yourselves a beer/wine/gin/lemonade.

TimBFMV

11-15-2009, 08:05 PM

i'm so sorry I couldn't get a track in today, but I'll submit this as well as the blues duels one, i did this on saturday with a couple other guys
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HcXhLyaU4c
Sorry I've been so bad at this, but i've got a science gcse on thursday and I can't do badly.

strawforest007

11-16-2009, 07:38 PM

I need high quality versions of the tracks off the following people (see your PM's for details):

*theneildeal - Dissident Blues
*pangui - Bozzetto Corto

This list and other info is being updated in the first post of this thread, so please keep checking it - and don't forget to look at your PM's!!

I can only start mastering the album when I have all the tracks in, so it is critical I get the tracks soon so we're not delaying the rest of the process. I have letters and emails ready for iTunes, CDBaby and Tipitina's Foundation but I'm waiting to master the album first and have it ready to offer to them. Apologies if I seem a little pushy or impatient about this but I'm excited and the waiting game just isn't fun!

Lastly, please could I have some feedback with the issue raised on my previous post?^^
-----------------
EDIT/UPDATE: Bad news TimBFMV, the backing track was taken from a CD issued with a book and the youtube uploader couldn't guarentee it was copyright free, so I'm sorry but I've got to reject your track.
-----------------
List updated (again)

clear and blue

11-17-2009, 09:02 AM

Re: Imgooley's song

in my opinion it is fine- one instance where it best fits the sentiment (dont think it would sound the same if you replaced shit with gosh or something), and not needless nonstop swearing is ok. again, my opinion, a decision is going to have to be made.

if it were to be a commercial album (for profit) i think it would take a hell of a lot more than that before you have to start putting R18 stickers on the cover.

other than that i don't see a problem in goolz submitting something else. . .
"10 - My decisions are final"
do what you like. if swearing is going to be a problem then maybe next time add it as another rule. i think goolz put in work on that track without knowing that it may be rejected on account of swearing - he should be given another shot.

i don't think anyone is going to disagree with you on that point. this is all a bit of fun afterall and being given the motivation to record something is going to be more important than whether it ends up on an album or whether someone gets an extension on a deadline or not.

speaking for myself; i enjoyed making my track (whether it was intended for the B&J album or not) and if it can help to fund Tipitinas, great. if not, the effort wasn't wasted anyway. you are producing the album, if you are willing to allow time for gooley to re-submit, do it. what we think is inconsequential as the remaining work is yours, although i'd be surprised if anyone disagrees with you on this

TimBFMV

11-17-2009, 12:22 PM

-----------------
EDIT/UPDATE: Bad news TimBFMV, the backing track was taken from a CD issued with a book and the youtube uploader couldn't guarentee it was copyright free, so I'm sorry but I've got to reject your track.
-----------------
List updated
Damn :( I've really let myself down in this one.

j_hunter_hkr

11-17-2009, 12:40 PM

I'll send you my track tonight when I get in from work.

Great effort everyone!

strawforest007

11-17-2009, 01:10 PM

Cool, cheers Jamie!

Bad luck to you TimBFMV, just wait for the next album to come along...

RE: Goolz track - Goolz has decided not to replace his track or create a new one for the album, so sadly he won't be on the album this time round and has been removed from the list. I do apologise for not mentioning a non-swearing rule in the first post which I didn't think of adding at the time, so the fundamental error is mine not goolz's, but I know this for next time...

j_hunter_hkr

11-17-2009, 02:55 PM

Here's another cover image. A different vibe to the Tele one, I like it. Let me know what you guys think. The Tele image is off of iStock photo and because the CD will be sold I'd need to pay an extended licence for it. I've spoken to the photographer and he has no issues with us using the image but it's iStock who own the rights to it. Both me and Strawforest have sent e-mails to iStock about it being for charity but they don't seem to want to reply.

http://www.jamiehunter.co.uk/cover02.jpg

This image is from sxc.hu and it perfectly fine to use and sell for charity.

Jazzman91

11-17-2009, 03:57 PM

^^ fits the album well, too ^^

clear and blue

11-17-2009, 04:44 PM

nice one!

you may need to make the title and logos a little bigger if it is only being sold in digital format though. . im not familiar with iTunes but I know the images from ripped cds on windows media player are about 1/4 of the size of that one - you may not be able to read the writing at that size. . .

just a thought

RubberSoul54321

11-17-2009, 05:08 PM

Looks good.

Must say I'm disappointed about God Don't Like Ugly - I thought it was an excellent song and, considering the type of lyrics that appear on most records now, it seems a bit tame. Ah well.

strawforest007

11-17-2009, 09:57 PM

Still awaiting high quality tracks from the following:

Pangui - Bozzetto Corto
theneildeal - Dissident Blues

RS - It does seem tame and I feel ashamed to act as a some kind of censor, however; I have thought very hard over this and changed my own mind several times about it all but there are so many 'what if?' situations if I did leave this track in, socially and possibly legally. What if someone got offended by it and complained? This will quite possibly be distributed online worldwide, so different countries have different laws - it would seem strange would it not to see a charity album with some kind of age restriction on it? That may seem extreme, but considering the charity we are aiming for is youth oriented; from school kids to young adults I don't want to risk that. Alienating any possible audience (any age or nationality) with a charity album I felt would be a big no-no, however small the risk - risk being too strong a word in this case, but you get my point.

I too am very disappointed at not having the track on the album, but I decided on the safe option in the end.

Don't forget this is a huge learning curve for me. I may well regret leaving this track out in hindsight, but we'll have to see. If the charity/distribution side of things falls through I have promised Goolz I will re-instate the track onto the band page album.

I would like to add and make it clear that I'm not rejecting the track based on my own opinions but rather a judgement for the good of the project as a whole, which ultimately I have to take a responsibility for.

RubberSoul54321

11-18-2009, 04:09 AM

Fair enough - I understand where you are coming from: it's just a pity is all. Your decision is final and I'm not arguing against it. Shame goolz doesn't want to put another track in though - he's a damn fine blues player and it's a shame not having a contribution..

zhilla

11-18-2009, 05:43 AM

I would like to add and make it clear that I'm not rejecting the track based on my own opinions but rather a judgement for the good of the project as a whole, which ultimately I have to take a responsibility for.I'm sure we all appreciate that - and also appreciate you running the whole thing and making the hard decisions :cheers:

It is a shame Goolz isn't submitting another track tho :(

strawforest007

11-18-2009, 11:11 AM

First post has been updated. I forgot to add Nico42's tracks to the list!!

This extends the album now to 21 tracks running at approximately 71 minutes.

We can either vote tracks off to shorten it down to an album, or we can have a double-album.

Have a think about both options. Have a listen through all the tracks on the first post then let me know what you would prefer to do. Everyone submitted will get at least 1 track on the album.

I am happy to do either I just need a general opinion...

Jazzman91

11-18-2009, 02:00 PM

Mmh, that's a hard decision...

If we'll do a double-album, we won't have enough tracks (in my opinion... 10 tracks aren't enough, should be around 15 on each...)
If we vote tracks off, just two or three albums won't get on the album (we've got 60 minutes, right?) ... that would be a privilege for all the others who won't have to resign one of their tracks...

Dont really know what to do...

clear and blue

11-18-2009, 02:44 PM

i dont know. . 10 tracks/35 minutes sounds about right to me for an album. tbh i cant listen all the way through the first blues/jazz album in one sitting . . . although we have a bit more varied mix this time round.

pardon my ignorance but what do you mean by a double album? if its sold on say iTunes, don't they sell on a per song basis or per album or both? if its a double album would that mean like a part 1 + part 2 or something? when i think double album i think of an album with 2 cds so i don't know what it means in the digital world.

if its sold on an album basis i dont think it should go over 40 mins so either make 2 of them or get rid of 7 or 8 songs.

strawforest007

11-18-2009, 03:02 PM

Digitally I'm sure a double-album would just be listed as one big album, but if it were on CD/vinyl/cassette etc it would require two of it i.e. a 2-CD set.

This is where this gets a little tricky - all the songs we have will fit on one audio CD so it is a contender as a normal album by definition, BUT at the length it is at makes it a very long album, which is why I have posed the question.

My current opinion is to cut back on a few tracks by voting, but I will wait to see what a few more people have to say about it first before I make a decision.

+ it looks unlikely that Neil (theneildeal) will reply to my call for a higher quality track as he's not been online since september. I'll give him about a week to reply, but if I hear nothing I'll have to leave his track out and move on...

----------------
Update: album cover is now confirmed to be copyright approved, so I guess the cover is now official. Yay!
----------------

clear and blue

11-18-2009, 04:36 PM

seems to me we can:

A) choose the best 10-12 or so songs and make a regular album

B) leave it how it is and call it a double album

C) as b) but:- get rid of a few songs by vote for the purpose of quality control if people think certain tracks are'nt up to the standard of the album

A) is going to be a little tricky in that i don't know what voting system you would use.
C) will be the hardest in that the objective would be filtering rather than cutting down to a specified number of tracks. this is going to need people to be brutally honest with each other as it would probably have to be done in the forum in words (i.e. not an anonymous vote) so would need people to be objective and not take critisism to bad.

personally i'd go with B). second choice would be A).

*Discuss*

Jimmy94

11-18-2009, 04:41 PM

looks like it would be a great length if everyone chose one track to submit

strawforest007

11-18-2009, 05:05 PM

Good point there Jimmy. One track from each user (depending on which track you pick), puts the album length to between 38-44 minutes, which is perfect.

But how would that work with the collaboration tracks? Would they be counted the same as the solo efforts? Adding collaborations as bonus tracks would put the length to 46-52 minutes. Is that too long? That would be 12 album tracks plus 2 bonus tracks. Maybe that would be alright?

clear and blue

11-18-2009, 05:52 PM

that sounds perfect although it may seem a bit unfair to those who put the work in on more than one track.
12 tracks + the two bonus collaborations is just right

have you started any of the mastering work or are you waiting for the finished track list?

strawforest007

11-18-2009, 06:53 PM

that sounds perfect although it may seem a bit unfair to those who put the work in on more than one track.
12 tracks + the two bonus collaborations is just right

have you started any of the mastering work or are you waiting for the finished track list?

I'm not starting the mastering until I've got a copy of all the tracks, got a finished tracklist and then a track order. The track order you may have to simply trust me with as when I have all the tracks I'll have the first hand resource to see which ones blend together easier. But I'll happily take suggestions on what track you'd like where on the album, but only after we've got a general decision on how many tracks/what tracks to include.

As long as we all feature on the album that would seemingly be the fairest option. Cutting off the extra tracks of those who did more than 1 may seem a bit unfair, but compromises will have to be made with whatever decision we, or I end up making.

Is anyone here in favour of keeping the number of tracks as it is?

I'll let this be discussed for a while as it is a vital decision to make for the album. It would be good to hear everyones opinion about it.

whitenihilist

11-18-2009, 07:47 PM

I would be willing to withdraw "In the Horizon" from the album for the sake of shortening the album.

strawforest007

11-18-2009, 08:03 PM

Cool. I'll bear that in mind 'nihilist.

I've drawn up examples in a blog rather than me plastering this thread with info.

It also asks some questions which may or may not need answering...

Example 2 in the blog follows on from the idea of tracks being withdrawn down to 1 track per UG'er:

http://profile.ultimate-guitar.com/strawforest007/blog/

Let me know what you guys think...

whitenihilist

11-18-2009, 08:11 PM

Example 2 is my favorite to be honest.

clear and blue

11-19-2009, 03:34 AM

Option 2.

take the decisions for a) and b) yourself. or maybe leave a day or so for people's preferences regarding which song to omit.

you will have the best idea of song order so leave it to you to decide.

good luck with the mastering!

Jazzman91

11-19-2009, 09:54 AM

I think that it would be the best if everyone gets one of his tracks on the album. So it's option 2 for me, too.

As I personally am affected by omitting one song, I would prefer deciding on my own, wich track should get on the album... I think it will be the same for the other ones who submitted two tracks.

I would prefer having "Snow on a Summer Day" on the album; the "One Minute Blues" didnt take that much work.

strawforest007

11-19-2009, 10:14 AM

Cool.

I'll withdraw my track 'Take My Hand'.

I'll ask Philippe, RubberSoul and Nico about their tracks...

clear and blue

11-19-2009, 10:51 AM

I would prefer having "Snow on a Summer Day" on the album; the "One Minute Blues" didnt take that much work.

im glad you said that. "Snow on a Summer Day" is my favourite track on the album.

RubberSoul54321

11-19-2009, 05:44 PM

I've withdrawn Swamp Blues. Losin it All took a lot more time to do and nearly drove me mad.

strawforest007

11-20-2009, 07:47 AM

Cheers guys, first post has been updated.

Just waiting for Nico and theneildeal...

Jimmy94

11-20-2009, 02:08 PM

I hope nico goes with untitled2, that track is so cool

strawforest007

11-20-2009, 05:36 PM

Nico went with untitled2 - renamed Blue Summer.

I'll give Neil until Monday to get back to me, then I'll start mastering. He's not been online for 2 months, so we may have to just carry on without him - sorry!

I'll tweak around with the track order this weekend and see where each tracks sounds best.

RubberSoul54321

11-20-2009, 07:22 PM

can you work with neil's track as-is? even if it's a little below par (quality-wise)?

strawforest007

11-20-2009, 08:40 PM

All I have is a 128kb mp3 copy of his. It's still in the tracklist at the moment, but I really will need a higher quality version not just to master with but to submit to the distributor when it's all done. I'll try and master it in but if the sound quality is really lacking then at least I've tried. I don't want to be waiting around forever just for neil to get this track in to me either, UG doesn't need another unfinished project! I've set next week as mastering week as well since I'm free, although it may take a bit longer...

If the charity/itunes thing falls through it will go back on the album and onto the band page (as will all the other submitted tracks that we recently removed)...

Jimmy94

11-21-2009, 04:24 PM

will this one be reviewed by UG like the first one?

nico42

11-22-2009, 06:47 PM

Damn..I really thought I saw no "new posts" symbol-thingy on this thread (maybe a bug...maybe it was just me..) and thought that there was nothing new here...boy was I wrong!
I would've worked much quicker, if I knew there was so much going on here.
Oh and Jimmy, I'm glad I instinctively chose your favourite track;)

strawforest007

11-22-2009, 08:48 PM

First post has been updated with the final tracklist.

I re-switched my choice of track as it suited the album more ('Take My Hand' instead of 'Ebb & Flow').

I've listened to the album about 20 times or so over the weekend before I settled on the current list. It's difficult for me to explain how I ended up with the order it is in, but my basic reasoning is this:

I've tried to order the tracks as jazz/blues/jazz/blues...and so on, I also tried to create a contrast between some tracks, but with continuation between others to create a mixed blend across the album. Songs with singing are evenly spaced throughout the album. I think and hope I've achieved the right balance.

If I've made any errors, or you suggest I should re-arrange the tracks - shout out!

^ Jimmy94 - not sure, but if they don't I'll kick and scream until they do...

clear and blue

11-23-2009, 02:52 PM

looks good to me. once again, good on you for putting in all this work producing. bet you're sick of hearing the album now.

did you get to leave all tracks pretty much as is or did you have to do some subtle compression? i didn't put any master compression on mine (only a touch on a couple of guitar tracks) so it'll probably sound a bit quieter than the typical track. think it peaked about -2dB and average was around -25dB

that said, you won't want any sharp jumps in loudness track to track either . . . in an ideal world we'd all record/mix to the same loudness to avoid having to compress to normalise the volumes at mastering.

keep it up!

strawforest007

11-23-2009, 03:37 PM

I'm levelling the volumes first, ironing out any major volume jumps between tracks.

I will add or trim a few seconds to some tracks so they flow smoothly between each other as well.

I'll be messing around with compression, a bot of EQ and all sorts of fun sounding plug-ins, but I'll do my best not to alter the feel or sound of any of the tracks. If anyone's not happy with their track after the master, I'll re-do it.

I may do a couple of different masters then decide which one sounds better. Hopefully I can get one master done by the end of this week.

Suprisingly I'm not sick of the tracks yet. Ask me again after the mastering and you might not get the same answer...

strawforest007

11-24-2009, 12:36 PM

Righteo! Check the band page: http://artists.ultimate-guitar.com/bluesjazzalbumii/

This is what I've done so far:

- evened out the volumes between tracks
- compressed most tracks
- added fade-in or fade-out to some tracks
- boosted some frequencies on some tracks to give them a lift (nothing major)
- added a tiny bit of reverb to three tracks to help fill the sound out across the stereo mix
- uploaded to the album bandpage @ 320kb mp3

I'm pretty happy with it, but if there's anything else you want doing to your track, or you are not happy with it, or you have any suggestions what else I should do to improve the overall sound (maybe boost/lower some more frequencies?) - let me know and I'll re-do it.

When you're all happy with it I'll email each of you a copy of the album.

Jazzman91

11-24-2009, 01:02 PM

Yeah, sounds great.... :cheers: just listened through the album...

How is the foundation thing going on? Do you have any answers from them or from iTunes or whoever you might've asked?

clear and blue

11-24-2009, 01:10 PM

all sounds good to me. except - and this isn't my track, just my opinion - i think the low bass on "Snow on a Summers Day" needs reigning in a bit. gets a bit boomy at a few points; cutting a bit of the sub frequencies would tighten it up a bit i think.

of course, thats my opinion and ultimately its up to jazzman as artist and you as producer.

they all sound a lot better than the individual originals. are they at only 128kbps on the band page? well done

strawforest007

11-24-2009, 02:44 PM

I've taken some bass off Snow on a Summers Day and re-uploaded it. Yes the bass was too boomy, especially compared to the other tracks.

They're all 320kb on the band page. Nico found out that UG lies when it says it prefers 128kb.

Edit:

I'm contacting the charity and distributor now. I'll let you know as soon as i get any info.

clear and blue

11-24-2009, 04:46 PM

cool, sounds better now (on my hifi at least)

i must say you've done a good, professional sounding master on all tracks.

good work everyone else too. i think this is a big step forward from the first album.

RubberSoul54321

11-24-2009, 06:22 PM

It sounds excellent - I feel privileged to be a part of this. Thanks to Strawforest for all the hard work and for providing this opportunity. Even if bog all comes of this, it was a great experience for someone of my limited abilities and I've learned a lot from it. :cheers:

matt92l

11-24-2009, 07:21 PM

Excellent, I'm excited to be a part of this!

clear and blue

11-30-2009, 06:59 AM

It sounds excellent - I feel privileged to be a part of this. Thanks to Strawforest for all the hard work and for providing this opportunity. Even if bog all comes of this, it was a great experience for someone of my limited abilities and I've learned a lot from it. :cheers:

i think strawforest has been a real pillar of the UG blues players community. between the blues duels and this album, everyone involved has progressed in some way, whether it is in playing, writing, recording/mixing or a combination of all these. you can hear it in the tracks on people's profiles.

cheers martin for making this possible. good luck with the negotiations with distributers and the charity!

Jazzman91

11-30-2009, 02:52 PM

Are the bonus tracks already mastered? I would like to listen to them, but they aren't on the band page.
(Any news from the charity?)

strawforest007

11-30-2009, 04:53 PM

Are the bonus tracks already mastered? I would like to listen to them, but they aren't on the band page.
(Any news from the charity?)

They are there, just not on the first page. UG only allows up to 10 songs on the front band page. Click on the "view all mp3's" tab to see the other 4 songs. Or click here (http://artists.ultimate-guitar.com/bluesjazzalbumii/music/)

I'll keep everyone updated as soon as I hear anything from distributors or the charity...

Jimmy94

12-01-2009, 02:24 PM

great job straw!

RubberSoul54321

12-03-2009, 06:23 PM

Wouln't it be nice to create a blog on the jazz & blues band profile on which everyone of us would write a little article about the song we made ?

That's a pretty cool idea. Go for it.

strawforest007

12-05-2009, 04:29 PM

Wouln't it be nice to create a blog on the jazz & blues band profile on which everyone of us would write a little article about the song we made ?

Yes, good idea.

strawforest007

12-16-2009, 08:18 PM

A big thank you to TuneCore, whom officially confirmed with me today:

The album will be available on iTunes (USA and UK/EU) within 2 to 4 weeks from today.

Do you know how much would be sold the album ?
is it about 1 € per tune ?

strawforest007

12-17-2009, 08:48 AM

C and B:
have you contacted Tipitina's then? - Yes, twice but with no reply so far. They will still receive the money if they don't get in contact.

and when do we get sent a copy? - I'm bundling the album today into a zip file. I'll give all of you involved in the album a free copy very soon...No hard copies I'm afraid though.

salmon philippe:
Do you know how much would be sold the album ?
is it about 1 € per tune ? - Yes it will be the standard iTunes price per song / album.

I can't express on here how excited I am by all this btw, I barely slept last night after I got the confirmation.

Jazzman91

12-17-2009, 09:41 AM

That's really great!!!

clear and blue

12-17-2009, 12:51 PM

i'm interested in the process: how did you set things up with iTunes to credit Tipitina's before they had even responded to you? is it some kind of publicly visible account to allow anonymous donations?

strawforest007

12-17-2009, 01:29 PM

You can't deal directly with iTunes, you have to go through a distributor (effectively a publisher as well). So I searched for distributors and TuneCore came out on top (they expressed the most interest, were the most helpful and gave the best deal). So TuneCore handle the accounts side of things and will issue Tipitina's with a cheque after sales are made (the target amount before the first cheque is $100/£62). When I get updates on sales through the TuneCore account, I will update you guys - this will most likely be monthly (depending on sales that is!).

TuneCore initially offered a 30% discount from the fees, but eventually offered to release it for free. They will recover there overhead costs from initial sales, hence the target price before giving the first cheque to the charity. Fair is fair!

So all in all; you buy the album on iTunes -> money goes to TuneCore -> money goes to charity -> win

All I can ask now is all you guys to help name-drop the album all over the place!

TimBFMV

12-17-2009, 01:32 PM

Nice! I'll be buying it!

clear and blue

12-17-2009, 02:33 PM

well done with getting it distributed without incurring any costs! must have been a bit of a learning experience, as well as the production/mastering and organisation of it all

hopefully the target amount will be reached in no time. i wonder if UG would allow an advert of some sort on the UG homepage. . would be a good way to get the ball rolling.

strawforest007

12-17-2009, 02:43 PM

^ I've already contacted Matter about that. There should be a feature in the next week or two...

I also submitted an 'upcoming releases' article which should appear soon also.

strawforest007

12-18-2009, 01:53 PM

BAD NEWS:

Due to legality issues (from UG), the album artwork has been removed.

My fault for overlooking this one guys, but we effectively used the UG logo without approval.

We need new artwork (with no references to UG and without both the charity logo and the UG logo) pretty much instantly so then I can somehow get TuneCore to change it.

*in state of panic*

EDIT/UPDATE:

I've done a new album cover. I used the same image as last time and altered the text. I've had to do this quickly and submit to TuneCore, hopefully it's not too late for them to accept it. It's a rushed job, but I had to do it.

Really really sorry about this, especially to j_hunter_hkr who did the original (and superb) artwork. As fun as being potentially sued by UG sounds I'm not prepared for that situation...

Another update; the cover has been successfully changed, although it's not the new cover j_hunter_hkr gave to me - I had extremely little time to get this all fixed and I was lucky to be able to change it at all...

There's also a bandpage up on TuneCore: http://www.tunecore.com/music/bluesjazzalbumii

The write-up and art are both freely editable, so if anyone wants to add or change something let me know and I'll do it. I quickly created some art for our 'band'. Although we're not a real band as such, it makes the page look a little neater - the art can be changed too, so you're all welcome to make new 'band' art.

I've only received a couple of replies to the songs descriptions PM (Philippe's idea). I'll add these to the bandpage if everyone else writes about their own track too.

UG should be running a feature on the homepage soon to show their support. Hopefully the album will be reviewed by the UG Team shortly after its release...

I've not been given a definitive date for the iTunes release, but it will be up 'before 27th January'. As soon as it's gone live, I'll send out an over-excited PM to you all.

If we/you all decide to make another album in the future then you'll know what not to do! I've certainly learnt a few things (i.e. always check and double-check everything)!

Thanks to all of you and I'll be back on here in the new year. Have a lovely holiday!

zhilla

12-24-2009, 06:30 PM

Nice work Straw, thanks :) Merry Christmas everyone! :D

whitenihilist

12-25-2009, 07:42 PM

I have been trying to think of something to write about my track, but so much turmoil has happened in my life since then, I cannot remember what I was feeling/thinking when I recorded it.

I will still try and get a sentence or two out. =/

matt92l

12-26-2009, 05:05 AM

We're on the home page! Great work guys well done! And a very merry christmas to all.

barefootboy

12-26-2009, 09:34 AM

I await with anticipation the release.

strawforest007

01-07-2010, 03:39 PM

The album is up on iTunes and ready to buy!!

http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/blues-jazz-album-ii/id347199699

j_hunter_hkr

01-07-2010, 04:40 PM

Fantastic! I've already posted this on my Facebook, but I don't have many friends! It would be great if UG could sticky something on every forum pointing in the direction of the iTunes store or maybe a Facebook group.

Martin, I know you've done enough already, but I feel this is your baby. Any chance you could have a word?

strawforest007

01-07-2010, 06:06 PM

^ Check.

I've just created a MySpace page too for the album. It's only allows a limited amount of tracks to put on the page to (max. 10), so I've only uploaded a couple of tracks.

I'll create a Facebook group or fanpage or something like that later today...

Hey, it's great to see it's been officially released now, congrats to everyone involved, especially Martin, for making this project come to life! Unfortunately i can't do much in the way of spreading the word as it's not available on the Australian I-tunes so none of my friends can download it. I've added the groups on facebook and myspace anyway :)

^-^

01-09-2010, 01:40 AM

would their be any chance of a hard-copy, like a C.D.?

strawforest007

01-09-2010, 06:28 AM

would their be any chance of a hard-copy, like a C.D.?

Because of our lavish budget of zero, this would be impossible. If the album gets ridiculously popular then there may be a call for a short run of hard copies but that is extremely unlikely (due to logistics, distribution and costs). Your best option if you really wanted a hard copy would be to simply download and burn the album to disc and print out the album art yourself.

clear and blue

01-09-2010, 01:34 PM

/\ thats what im going to do for a few friends and family that want a copy. not hard and im willing to put in the work and blank cds if it means the album is getting into more people's stereos. not tried it yet but hopefully iTunes will allow one user to download more than one copy.

did you ever hear back from Tipitinas? now at least they will benefit from any sales but it would be nice at some point to hear what their view on it is.

strawforest007

01-09-2010, 01:52 PM

I've not heard a sausage. I'm guessing either they don't check emails or mine aren't making it through any spam filters they might have.

I'll try contacting them from my other email addresses and see what happens. It's not the end of the world if they never reply, they'll still get the proceeds when the sales money comes through (the first sales update I get will be in mid-March). But like you say, it would be good to hear from them.

^-^

01-09-2010, 04:24 PM

all right, i probably will download and burn a copy, just checking to see if their was a hard copy first.

strawforest007

01-11-2010, 01:45 PM

^ cool.

Reply from Tipitina's:

"Martin, this is terrific! We're genuinely grateful for your efforts on our behalf, and for the generosity of all the participating musicians. May we link from our site to your purchase pages?

I'm afraid I have no record of previous emails from you, or from ugbluesjazz@googlemail.com - not sure which tipitinas address you might have been sending to - but I do apologize for the lack of communication, and any concern or confusion that may have caused.

Again, Many Thanks"

Great news then guys! It seems we have their support!
If I hear any more from them I'll let you all know...

RubberSoul54321

01-11-2010, 03:08 PM

This is really cool - I'm as excited as a boy with a very special reason for being excited!!!!!

clear and blue

01-11-2010, 06:29 PM

great news! for a while i was worried they wouldn't want anything to do with our efforts but i guess the spirit of the charity is similar to that in which we created the album . .

thanks for the update

strawforest007

01-11-2010, 06:54 PM

That was my worry too. It's turned out well in the end though!

I'm hoping, (but not not expecting) they'll mention this album on their website in some form. I think it also might be worthwhile allowing them permission to create hard copies to sell if they have the facilities and/or feel the need to do so. On the other hand I'm happy for it to just be a download only album, but if there are clear opportunities to sell the album in other ways then ultimately it will benefit them.

We're limited by the budget to 'market' the album, so for now at least we're going to have to rely soley on word-of-mouth - so expect sales to be slow. If anyone knows how we could help spread the word I'm open to any ideas.

I'll ask UG for a UG Team review...

j_hunter_hkr

01-11-2010, 07:19 PM

Great stuff Martin!

I've spread the word among friends and family, I'm not sure if any of them have purchased the album though. I'll get my thinking cap on with regards to marketing the album...

pangui

01-13-2010, 05:07 AM

UG should be running a feature on the homepage soon to show their support. Hopefully the album will be reviewed by the UG Team shortly after its release...

Any news on when/if this will be happening? I just read the first album's review so I'm pretty keen to see one for this album :)

EDIT: Sorry, I didn't see your post above saying you're looking into it just now. ;)

barefootboy

01-13-2010, 08:09 PM

Another great effort guys and gals, I now have my copy to enjoy (which I shall). Extra kudo's to Martin for making it happen.

strawforest007

01-18-2010, 02:59 PM

Today I decided to make a website for the album.

http://bluesandjazzalbum.webeden.co.uk/

It should appear in google results in a few days time.

If you have any ideas how to improve it, if I've missed some information out or made a mistake then give me a shout!

EDIT: I've been considering making a short promo video for youtube using samples of all the tracks from the album. Good idea, or bad idea?

RubberSoul54321

01-18-2010, 06:05 PM

That's a cool looking website - clearly you are a man of many talents! The video idea sounds good too. I feel quite bad because all I did was record a tune but I'm afraid my skills don't run to graphic design, web design, production or any of that good stuff.

strawforest007

01-20-2010, 10:27 PM

Promo video - it's not the best, but it's a start:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWyioyZtO5M

Opinions, critiques and suggestions please!

salmon philippe

01-21-2010, 08:08 AM

Hey Martin
I have seen the site , very cool , I am going to send the link to my internet friends ... who knows , some of them may buy the album
About the video, very cool , I like it
It would be even better and more attractive with some pics of the artists joined though ...

At the moment, yes - iTunes only. If sales go well (we get a sales report every 3 months) then the album will be made available in other online stores (and possibly a short run of CD's may be made if sales go really well).

We were limited on how to distribute the album because of our budget (zero), so we are fortunate to have a release at all.

strawforest007

02-03-2010, 09:03 AM

Sorry for the double-post!

VERY exciting moment today for the album: A hard-copy version!

Check out these photos and let me know what y'all think:

http://s436.photobucket.com/albums/qq84/strawforest007/UG/

EDIT: It's been professionally printed/constructed but it is just an example copy. A run of copies is possible but funding the manufacturing and organising the financial side from the sales leaves us with a problem. Any ideas on this?

Honest opinions on the design would be cool too...

strawforest007

02-03-2010, 09:46 AM

cool photos , I was also thinking of adding pics of the artists (ou can take some of me on my profile) for the Utube promotion videoclip you made

It's a great idea Phil, but would everyone be willing to have their photo on the video? It would seem a bit unfair to have photos of some of the artists and not others. If everyone wants a photo of themselves on the video then we'll do it.

I personally don't want a photo of myself on the video or album - I feel it should be about the charity and not the artist. I'd be interested to hear what everyone else feels about this...

clear and blue

02-03-2010, 02:25 PM

nice simple design on CD.

i have no idea how to organise funding for the hard copies as to even use revenue from iTunes sales would be kind of cheapening the original idea of being able to send all profits to Tipitinas. .

i was going to do a quick design for album sleeves for any that i make but that would only be on a friends and family basis in that there are people who want the album but dont have iTunes (obviously paying iTunes for each copy). this is only feasible in fairly low numbers - i dont mind fronting the blank CDs and doing the printing work for a few people if it gets the album more sales.

i can't see a good way of doing it on a professional scale without eating into the profits. maybe if the printing company can do it on tick like with tunecore? that way the first sales would be used to pay for printing and everything after that directly to Tipitinas

its a bloody administrative nightmare! there would have to be a central bank account used for paying all sales into from which the printers and Tipitinas can be transferred. . this would likely need some kind of registration as a charity account to avoid the not so friendly imbeciles at the IR nabbing the account holder for undeclared income. . what about VAT? . .

Regarding the photos: id rather not have one as it would (for me) take away the good will side of it and make it feel a little like the charity has just been used to promote ourselves. but then i have no desire for fame (admittedly it feels quite cool to be able to find your track on iTunes by searching your own name) . . i enjoyed making the track and hope the album sales make a good impact on Tipitinas and there it ends for me. can understand if not everyone feels this way but that is where i stand

RubberSoul54321

02-03-2010, 02:30 PM

I love the CD set-up, it looks really cool. As for personal pics, I don't mind one way or the other.

EDIT: I have no idea how you would manufacture and distribute CDs without really eating into the charity funds.

pangui

02-04-2010, 01:56 AM

I really like the design for the cover of the hardcopy, it looks very professional. As others have said though, I'm not sure how we could go about funding it. I think it really depends on how big a run you're planning to get made, and what you're planning to do with them once they're made.
My suggestion would be that if you found a few different retailers around the place and organised to supply them each with a set number of copies to sell, you could have them pay you a fixed price in advance that includes money to go to both the production of the album and to the foundation. You charge the suppliers 8 pounds per CD, as it is on Itunes, plus whatever the cost per CD is, which would vary depending on the company and number of CDs made (from my research, it seems around $2US per disc in a batch would be average). I think in the end it could come out to be a reasonable price.
The only consideration here is that the outlets may make a profit from it if they raise the price once the CDs are in the store, but I guess that wouldn't make a difference to the return to the foundation if they pay in advance. So if you mentioned that to the retailers, it would give them incentive to sell them - they are making a profit themselves, but are also supporting the charity.
So Martin, have you been given a quote for a batch of CDs or do you have an idea of approximate cost? I think we need to know that to figure out a strategy :)
Oh and if you do make some more, I'd bee very keen to get a copy sent to me out here. I'd pay you postage and what-not ;)
EDIT: One question though regarding the physical CD, in the photos it looks as though the disc has "43:28" on it. I think that's two minutes short according to my digital copy. Not a big problem, just wondering if that's an error you might want to fix.

Jazzman91

02-04-2010, 09:14 AM

Cool that there is a hard copy of the album in work. The pictures look very professional, good work ;)

About the personal pictures in the video, I wouldn't refuse to give them, but it's like Martin said, it would maybe draw the attention off the charity. Maybe we could use pictures of our instruments (but 14 guitars could be a bit boring) or of the charitys actions (if they allow us to use some).

strawforest007

02-04-2010, 01:52 PM

Cheers for the responses chaps, and yes it is an administrative nightmare! There's an awful lot to consider with hard copies, so don't be suprised if it doesn't happen!

Firstly, to get the CD I used kunaki.com - a bizarrely automated company. You can check the manufacturing rates, deals and other details on their website. Tipitina's themselves recommended them to me (the sample copy was completely free).

Secondly, there are options with distributing hardcopies. Issuing them to physical retail outlets would be the worst option in terms of logistics and cost, although it could give the album a lot of exposure - what outlets in what countries would be asked? Shipping costs?

Mail-ordering could be a possibility. Especially since kunaki have the CD ready to make and they can be made and then drop-shipped to the customer direct as soon as a sale is made (they have other options as well). The money from manufacturing is deducted from the sale amount before you get the money. Shipping costs are another matter as well. This could be our best option maybe?

This still throws up the massive issue of money as clear and blue mentions above. Where would the sales money go? Well, to Tipitina's of course but it needs a bank account to be transferred to first before going to Tipitina's (unless Tipitina's were asked to control this process themselves so they get the money as soon as sales are made without the need of money needlessly going through someone else first). I don't feel myself as a viable candidate for this level of responsibility regarding the accounts, for the simple possibility of something going slightly wrong i.e. accounts don't add up for some reason or I've overlooked some form of legality. I simply don't want or need the hassle. If I, or one of us were trusted to do the acounts process it would probably be worth a trip to a solicitor (lawyer) and a bank for advice and to find out everything first.

This could all get terribly complex if everything isn't taken into consideration.

Maybe hard-copies are a step too far at the moment? Maybe expanding to iTunes worldwide and other websites (myspace, spotify etc) would be a good move first(?) - but where do the funds come for this - I can't expect TuneCore to front the fees again. Would it be ethically wrong to pay using the funds from sales already made? Speculate to accumulate? I get the first sales report in mid-March.

Anyway, lot's to think about and discuss. Go into as much detail as you want and I'll do my best to answer!

Pangui: the CD is gapless which may explain the shorter time (43:28). I played the CD in a few different players and most gave this time-reading, although some gave a slightly longer time. It's not that big an issue is it?

RubberSoul54321

02-04-2010, 02:52 PM

I think, to be honest, before we all get carrried away with international distribution and such, we should see how many copies have been sold. I mean, we are all very proud of it (and justly so!) but is it realistically going to fly off the shelves? I don't mean to be a pessimist or anything , I'm just trying to stay grounded :)

strawforest007

02-04-2010, 03:52 PM

I think, to be honest, before we all get carrried away with international distribution and such, we should see how many copies have been sold. I mean, we are all very proud of it (and justly so!) but is it realistically going to fly off the shelves? I don't mean to be a pessimist or anything , I'm just trying to stay grounded :)

Yes, waiting on how the sales have gone is the sensible decision, but expanding the release to international level is not expensive, whether or not it flys off the shelves (which it won't). TuneCore can distribute to the following stores for $46.99 (approx £30 - which is only the price of 4 albums sales, and don't forget we already have USA, UK and EU - so the price will be a little bit less) :

Now I've not heard of a few of those, but (after viewing the sales report in March), maybe expanding to all these would be worth investing in? Surely putting the sale of 4 albums worth of sales money to give the album wider accessibility is justified? Not all UG'ers are from the USA and Europe. Sam (pangui) isn't able to get the album at the moment either which is unfair.

RubberSoul54321

02-04-2010, 04:00 PM

Didn't realise the electronic expansion was so cheap - go for it! We're bound to sell more than 4 copies LOL

j_hunter_hkr

02-04-2010, 08:23 PM

Instead of taking from the money the album has raised I'd gladly contribute towards the £30 to get it distributed on those sites.

clear and blue

02-05-2010, 05:41 AM

/\ good idea

have you got a paypal account martin? could PM the details to all interested parties and we could transfer the funds - if we had a good idea how many people would actually contribute i don't think that it is unfeasible. getting other stores than just iTunes would be great.

have we got any volunteers for contributing towards international distribution? even just 10 of us doing it will come to less than £3 each. . i for one can put my name down so long as others join in.

pangui

02-05-2010, 07:19 AM

Yeah, I'd be up for that as well. It'd be sweet to get a download in Australia, as well as all those other places :)

RubberSoul54321

02-05-2010, 03:31 PM

Sounds OK to me.

strawforest007

02-05-2010, 06:25 PM

/\ good idea

have you got a paypal account martin? could PM the details to all interested parties and we could transfer the funds - if we had a good idea how many people would actually contribute i don't think that it is unfeasible. getting other stores than just iTunes would be great.

have we got any volunteers for contributing towards international distribution? even just 10 of us doing it will come to less than £3 each. . i for one can put my name down so long as others join in.

Yes I've got a Paypal account, but it's a business account. Having several small payments would look a little strange, and don't forget Paypal also charge fees. Just seems unecessarily fiddley.

What I'll do is have another word with TuneCore and see what deal they could possibly do and I'll just front the money because it's not much tbh. I was tempted to do it sooner but thought I'd ask you guys for ideas first.

Also had an idea to make a poster design so we could all download and print a copy out if we wanted and pin them to noticeboards, lampposts, bedroom walls etc, or just hand them out for fun. A4 size? Nothing fancy, just clear and concise.

strawforest007

03-05-2010, 06:26 AM

Apologies again for the double-post.

The album will shortly be available worldwide at ALL of the stores I mentioned in the earlier post.

Amazon On Demand is a hard-copy sales site, for those who want one! Although it's using one of Amazons compulsory templates and not my custom design I also posted earlier - but they are fairly similar.

Prices for the album will be different on each website, I think Amazon MP3 will be the cheapest at about $4. Amazon On Demand will be the most at about $15.

The album may take a few days or weeks to appear on all the online catalogs. If you guys can report on here when you see it that would be cool.

First sales report from the first itunes sales will be available within the next 2 weeks.

Cool, cheers for that Pangui. I've seen it up on emusic as well now - I'll add the links to these sites on the album website shortly.

Sorry for the delay for reporting the sales, although it seems this forum has (sadly) been dead for months anyway. Anyway, I've digressed.

The first report gave us a figure of $53.50 (7 albums + 4 individual tracks downloaded)

At first it seems an alarmingly low figure, but the figures only show up 2 months after a sale is made. I'm guessing these figures are from what were sold in the short period between when the album went live and when it was advertised on the UG front page. The next report should give us a better picture of how well it has sold so far as the UG news and UG review weren't up until late Jan/early Feb which should result in a boost in sales.

Anyway, fingers crossed for the next report - this will be on Wednesday April 14th.

strawforest007

04-15-2010, 11:44 AM

Afternoon chaps!

I received the report the report this morning. Not to seem ungrateful but I'm disappointed that the figure barely budged. The total so far (sales from the release date up to 14th February) stands at $60.87 (US dollars)

This consists of 8 album sales and 4 individual track sales in total.

I think I mentioned earlier in the thread that TuneCore required the sales to hit $100 in order to send the first (maybe the only) cheque to Tipitina's.

How does everyone else feel about the way this has all gone so far?

On another note, my laptop (that contained all the album data, original artwork and masters etc, literally everything) was dropped, wiping the hard-disk. Great!

Jazzman91

04-15-2010, 12:12 PM

Lol it's the same for me, I lost all the data, too, because of a computer crash...

Mmh, to be honest, I have expected a bit more sales... I hope the interest will grow a bit in the next time

clear and blue

04-17-2010, 11:04 AM

well it's early yet, maybe we can still stimulate some more sales

that is a bit disappointing as it doesn't even equal an album per contributer - if we had all bought our own copies we would have more than doubled sales. . .

am i wrong or is the album up there indefinitely or does it get taken down after a while? just thinking that i've built websites before that have had no traffic for the first few months and then gone crazy. there was an exponential growth with the websites, maybe it will be the same for the album.

i am gutted so far (i can imagine how you feel straw, after all the work you put in) but have hope that things will improve. also, even if the album made no sales it has still been a great experience for all of us. the amount of progression made by a lot of you here is really inspiring.

strawforest: i can email you the copy of the album that i have but it isn't the master.

strawforest007

04-20-2010, 01:51 PM

clear and blue: I'm fine for a copy (I've got it on CD), it's just if the album needed re-mixing or editing then its now impossible unless it's done from scratch again. I bought an iTunes copy as well for good measure. The album is not up indefinitely - it's only a year. It'll expire on 26th December 2010 for the EU, UK and USA, and in March for the rest of the world. Also, the master copy is uploaded to kunaki and could be made available to buy that way.

salmon: great stuff! ...and you are correct with all you have said.

I didn't mention that I am thrilled to have made the album and proud of it. I never had an illusion nor expected to to sell many copies, however considering the positive comments from the UG review and news articles I personally felt the $100 (US Dollar) target was reasonably achievable. Of course, there is plenty of time left to reach the target.

What I may do is contact Matter (UG editor) again and badger him to see if the album could be featured on the UG homepage again somehow. We've had a news article and a review, how about a UG interview with all of the contributors?

There's very little I can think of to help boost sales.

strawforest007

05-13-2010, 06:47 PM

Me again with a blatant double-post (again)!

Here's the news you've all been waiting for......our new total sales!

Since the update last month, we've made an extra whopping zero.

I'm going away for three months so you won't get the next update until mid-September.

pangui

06-12-2010, 08:06 AM

Hi guys, I have come up with an idea which may or may not increase awareness of the album, but I think it's worth a shot either way.
Anyway, the idea is that we put a mention of the album on Ultimate-Guitar's wikipedia article, and a link to the Itunes site. It could be mentioned under the "community" section of the article, as it already outlines the idea of registered users and the forums.
Of course, we'd have to make it clear that the album is a product of the site's community members and not part of the site itself to avoid any legal problems, but if we get a mod's ok for this, I think it would be worth doing. Anyone have any thoughts?

strawforest007

06-12-2010, 12:15 PM

Hi guys, I have come up with an idea which may or may not increase awareness of the album, but I think it's worth a shot either way.
Anyway, the idea is that we put a mention of the album on Ultimate-Guitar's wikipedia article, and a link to the Itunes site. It could be mentioned under the "community" section of the article, as it already outlines the idea of registered users and the forums.
Of course, we'd have to make it clear that the album is a product of the site's community members and not part of the site itself to avoid any legal problems, but if we get a mod's ok for this, I think it would be worth doing. Anyone have any thoughts?

Excellent idea. I don't see how it would need a mod's approval. Wikipedia can be edited by anyone, so as long as it is made clear it's a community project on the wiki page then I'm sure we're covered. No harm in asked a mod though! Can I leave it to you to try and sort this?
:cheers:

Quick update: as the sales overall have been slow and the album gets removed after 1 year (unless we renew) the total raised will be given to the charity after the album is removed. We are getting closer to the minimum target of $100 so we should reach the target by the end of the year.

pangui

06-12-2010, 10:35 PM

Excellent idea. I don't see how it would need a mod's approval. Wikipedia can be edited by anyone, so as long as it is made clear it's a community project on the wiki page then I'm sure we're covered. No harm in asked a mod though! Can I leave it to you to try and sort this?
:cheers:

Quick update: as the sales overall have been slow and the album gets removed after 1 year (unless we renew) the total raised will be given to the charity after the album is removed. We are getting closer to the minimum target of $100 so we should reach the target by the end of the year.
Yep no problem, I'll be sure to add it to the article within the next day or two. :cheers:

pangui

06-24-2010, 09:11 AM

Hi guys, sorry for the double post, but I've added the section onto the site's wikipedia page (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultimate_Guitar_Archive#Community), it's under the community heading.

3hta_bryce

07-07-2010, 12:36 AM

can i buy it from amazon?!?? i preview'd a couple of songs ,all in all a solid album, but i dont have itunes or and ipod :( sooo is there another way i could get the second and/or the first album??? thanks guys good work . :)

strawforest007

07-21-2010, 02:03 PM

can i buy it from amazon?!?? i preview'd a couple of songs ,all in all a solid album, but i dont have itunes or and ipod :( sooo is there another way i could get the second and/or the first album??? thanks guys good work . :)

Yep, it's available on most online stores worldwide now, including amazon. There's a full list a couple of pages back in this thread :)

strawforest007

12-08-2010, 02:09 PM

Hi again folks,

With just a couple of weeks left available to buy the album we are still $17.96 (US Dollars) short of our $100 target.

Please help to spread the word to push us over the finishing line. It's all for a good cause!!